As the journey continues through the wonderful world of romantic cinema, the next adventure leads us to the 1990s and 2000s, known for showcasing new and unique techniques and styles. Producing hugely popular features, the movie industry never fails to channel the feeling of innocent love, which is exactly the area these next two films shine.
The 1990s was an era known for its advancements in technology, such as the rise of the internet. With boy bands emerging, video games developing and baggy fashion styles surfacing, there is no doubt the films produced are full of innovative and unique styles.
“10 Things I Hate About You” is the 1999 American teen romantic comedy film directed by Gil Junger about a young, headstrong outcast who learns to open her heart up to a charming “bad boy.” Featuring Julia Stiles and Heath Ledger, this film breaks down stereotypes, heartbreaks and self-identity, making it hugely popular among teens.
Inspired by the Shakespearean play, “The Taming of the Shrew,” this motion picture updates the plot to re-imagine it in a modern setting. The relatable complexity of the characters resonated with the audience and captured the raw complexities of growing up during that time period, especially the social struggles in high schools during the ‘90s.
Not only was the plot and acting a selling point, but the soundtrack consisted of popular ‘90s songs, making it an easy watch for many people. With a spunky tune style, the era was perfectly captured through the music with cameos from popular bands such as Letters to Cleo, further enhancing the rock and punk vibe.
The 2000s were a time of many political challenges such as the infamous Sept. 11, 2001 attack and many disputes around the globe, leading to tragic wars. Despite these occurrences, this time period, in terms of media and pop-culture, was vibrant with many recognizable trends. Reality TV gained popularity, as well as a hugely distinct fashion style which evokes a feeling of nostalgia for many of those in Generation Z.
With this came the timeless classic, “The Notebook,” directed by Nick Cassavetes. Based on the original book by Nicholas Sparks, “The Notebook” is a 2004 American romantic-drama film set in the 1940’s. Featuring Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams, the film shows the power of love even after being separated for years.
A working-class man, Noah Calhoun (Ryan Gosling), and a wealthy young-lady, Allie Hamilton (Rachel McAdams), fall in love, but when Calhoun is drafted to fight in World WarⅡ, they fear their romance is over. When he returns, he finds that Hamilton is with another man, but both soon realize their spark isn’t quite extinguished.
With themes circulating throughout the movie of relationships, commitment and strength, this film captures the powerful yet beautiful truth to love, connecting on an emotional level to the audience. This motion picture kickstarted the dramatic-romance genre in the 2000s that would later inspire many similar films.
The success of this film also came from the charming melodies laced together to enhance the striking emotions. Most of the original songs featured were produced by Aaron Zigman, with the rest being older songs which helped convey feelings of love. In the 2000s, the comedies and lighthearted romances hit big, but this movie challenged that with its dramatic story line, woven together with moving instrumentals which audiences received very well and still love today.
With two very different decades comes two very different film styles, though both bloomed into two of the most nostalgic and successful romance films, engaging viewers from around the world. There is no doubt that no matter what decade it is, these timeless classics will always be replayed in people’s homes and remembered in their hearts.
